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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider Ambassador MaryKay Carlson bids a heartfelt farewell to the Philippines

Ambassador MaryKay Carlson bids a heartfelt farewell to the Philippines

As her tenure ends, the outgoing US envoy reflects on strengthened ties, humanitarian work, and enduring friendship with the Filipino people

Published Jan 12, 2026 01:09 pm
Ambassador MaryKay Carlson
Ambassador MaryKay Carlson
As her tenure as US ambassador to the Philippines draws to a close, MaryKay Carlson, ambassador of the US Embassy in the Philippines, leaves behind a legacy defined by strengthened alliances, humanitarian engagement, and genuine friendship with the Filipino people.
In her farewell message, posted on her social media pages, Ambassador Carlson expressed deep gratitude to her colleagues and the nation she served: “As I prepare to depart the Philippines, I am full of gratitude. To the extraordinary @USEmbassyPH team: thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your commitment to our shared values as #FriendsPartnersAllies has made every day meaningful. It has been my honor to serve as your Ambassador.”
During her tenure, Ambassador Carlson championed initiatives that reinforced the US-Philippines alliance. Her time in the Philippines was also defined by compassion. She stood alongside communities during times of need, reaffirming the US commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. These efforts underscored the enduring friendship between Americans and Filipinos, rooted in solidarity and mutual care. From joint military exercises to economic partnerships, she emphasized cooperation rooted in shared democratic values and regional stability.
Ambassador Carlson also prioritized economic collaboration, supporting programs that encouraged trade and investment between the two nations. She was a strong advocate for educational exchanges, highlighting the importance of empowering young leaders through scholarships and cultural programs that build bridges across generations.
Her leadership extended beyond policy. Ambassador Carlson’s warmth and openness endeared her to many. Whether engaging with students, artists, or local leaders, she embodied the values of respect and partnership. Her farewell message reflects not just the conclusion of her diplomatic mission, but the continuation of a relationship built on trust and shared values. Ambassador Carlson stood alongside communities during times of need, reaffirming America’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. These efforts underscored the enduring solidarity between the two nations.
She also celebrated the richness of Filipino culture and promoted educational opportunities, encouraging exchanges that empowered young leaders and built bridges across generations.
Ambassador Carlson’s warmth and openness made her tenure memorable not only for diplomatic milestones but also for the human connections she fostered. Her farewell reflects the depth of those relationships and the lasting friendship between the United States and the Philippines.
The official US Embassy family: Ambassador MaryKay Carlson joined by her spouse, Aubrey Alexander Carlson, with embassy staff and Filipino partners, reflecting on years of service and shared accomplishments.
The official US Embassy family: Ambassador MaryKay Carlson joined by her spouse, Aubrey Alexander Carlson, with embassy staff and Filipino partners, reflecting on years of service and shared accomplishments.
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